- Annual event in National Book Town scoops Thistle Award
- Win described as ‘a real boost to our confidence and morale’
Wigtown Book Festival last night took the title for the country’s most Outstanding Cultural Event or Festival in the annual Scottish Thistle Awards.
The prestigious awards, organised by VisitScotland (with headline sponsor Johnstons of Elgin) are an annual celebration of innovation, collaboration and sheer excellence in the tourism and events sector.
The organisers say that the quality of the finalists and winners demonstrate why Scotland is world-renowned as a must-visit destination.
After being named as the Outstanding Cultural Event or Festival (sponsored by STV), Cathy Agnew, Chair of Wigtown Festival Company, said: “Over the last 26 years Wigtown has grown into a much-loved mainstay of the annual festivals calendar, attracting large numbers of visitors to Galloway and contributing significantly to Scotland’s amazing cultural tourism offering.
“It’s terrific that the work of our staff and dedicated army of volunteers has been recognised with this award. It’s a real boost to our confidence and morale. We’re thrilled.”
Each year Wigtown Book Festival offers a ten-day celebration of literature, featuring author talks, workshops, and discussions that attract both local and international audiences.
Beyond books, the festival also hosts outdoor activities, performances, and events that embrace the region’s natural beauty.
Its commitment to community engagement, inclusivity, and cultural enrichment has cemented its reputation as a leading literary festival.
Steven Walker, Chair of the Scottish Thistle Awards Industry Panel said: “This is a remarkable achievement and shines a spotlight on the excellent tourism offerings available across Scotland.
“Earning recognition as one of the best in the country is a fantastic accomplishment. It not only shines a spotlight on the region but also underscores the positive impact our tourism and events industry has on Scotland as a whole.
“Winning a Scottish Thistle Award means joining a prestigious roll of honour, placing these winners among the country’s finest and opening doors to new opportunities.”
Earlier in the year Wigtown Book Festival had taken the title of Outstanding Cultural Event or Festival in the South of Scotland Thistle Awards.
- The next Wigtown Book Festival runs from 26 September to 5 October, 2025.
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Notes
Picture by Carlo Paloni/VisitScotland.
- This year’s Wigtown Book Festival featured more than 250 events and took place from 27 September to 6 October.
- Donations to support the work of WFC are welcome.
- For more about Wigtown Book Festival see www.wigtownbookfestival.com
About EventScotland
EventScotland is working to make Scotland the perfect stage for events by securing and supporting an exciting portfolio of sporting and cultural events. It provides funding opportunities and access to resources and information to develop the industry.
EventScotland is a team within VisitScotland’s Events Directorate, the national tourism organisation, alongside Business Events and Development teams. For further information about EventScotland, its funding programmes and latest event news visit www.eventscotland.org or follow Twitter @EventScotNews and follow us on LinkedIn.
About Creative Scotland
Creative Scotland is the public body that supports the arts, screen and creative industries across all parts of Scotland on behalf of everyone who lives, works or visits here. It enables people and organisations to work in and experience the arts, screen and creative industries in Scotland by helping others to develop great ideas and bring them to life. Creative Scotland distributes funding provided by the Scottish Government and the National Lottery. For further information about Creative Scotland please visit www.creativescotland.com. Follow us @creativescots and www.facebook.com/CreativeScotland.
For media information: Matthew Shelley at [email protected] or 07786 704299.
Wigtown Festival Company Ltd, 11 North Main Street, Wigtown, Dumfries & Galloway, Scotland, UK, DG8 9HN. Wigtown Festival Company Ltd is a company limited by guarantee with charitable status. Scottish Charity No. SCO3798